ABSTRACT
Systems of record keeping are the key to providing good patient care. Health professionals often complain that it takes too long to get the records from the records department or that they cannot locate the documents they need because they have been poorly filed. If the health professional were to record details in the patient-held record that a family member poses a risk to a child or vulnerable adult, there is a danger that the next time the health professional attends the home they may be refused entry to the house. Electronic records tend to be easier to read and less bulky, reduce the need for duplication and can increase communication between members of the inter-professional healthcare team. Although the electronic records have their advantages there are still some difficulties surrounding the implementation of the electronic systems. There has been much controversy regarding the cost and delays of implementation.
